3 Safeties The Commanders Should Target In Free Agency

Heading into the 2023 season, much like other positions on the Washington Commanders roster, the safety role held significant promise. The duo of Kamren Curl and Darrick Forrest was evolving into one of the league’s top young safety tandems. Despite the presence of first-round picks on the defensive line and at linebacker, it was the fifth and seventh-round selections at safety who arguably stood out as the most productive players.

Percy Butler and Quan Martin, both young talents, were expected to develop into reliable rotational assets. Meanwhile, veteran Jeremy Reaves provided valuable depth and exceptional special teams contributions.

However, injuries plagued Forrest and Reaves for most of the season, and Butler struggled with increased responsibilities. Martin showed glimpses of promise but battled injuries as well. Among them, only Curl met expectations, drawing interest from other teams as free agency loomed.

Dan Quinn and Joe Whitt Jr., credited with transforming the Dallas Cowboys defense in 2021, now face a similar challenge in Washington. As defensive coordinator, Whitt must revamp the secondary, particularly the safety position. With Forrest potentially without his rookie partner in 2024, Whitt must assess Martin’s role and Butler’s capacity for a larger workload.

Crucially, he must collaborate with Quinn and Adam Peters on the team’s strategy for pursuing free agents.

Fortunately, the upcoming free-agent market offers promising options for safeties, catering to various needs and budgets. Here are three players who could significantly impact the Commanders.

Antoine Winfield Jr., Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Winfield presents an enticing option, boasting versatility, youth, and stellar performance. At 26, he seeks a lucrative long-term deal, potentially making him the league’s highest-paid safety.

Despite initial concerns about his size, Winfield’s athleticism and adaptability have silenced doubters. With the ability to excel in various roles, including deep coverage and near the line of scrimmage, Winfield resembles past greats like Bob Sanders.

His potential addition could compensate for Curl’s potential departure and elevate the Commanders’ defense.

C.J. Gardner-Johnson, Detroit Lions

Gardner-Johnson brings a mix of aggressiveness and playmaking ability, though his injury history raises some concerns. Despite missing most of the 2023 season, the 26-year-old has demonstrated prowess in both tackling and coverage, tallying impressive interception and pass defended stats in previous years.

However, his temperament and past conflicts raise questions about his fit within the team’s culture. If the Washington Commanders believe in his talent and maturity, Gardner-Johnson could be a game-changing addition to their secondary.

Xavier McKinney, New York Giants

Securing McKinney would not only bolster the Commanders’ defense but also weaken a divisional rival. The former second-round pick has showcased his dominance when healthy, displaying versatility and impact in both pass coverage and run support.

With his ability to play deep or in the box, McKinney offers flexibility that could optimize the development of younger players like Forrest, Butler, and Martin. However, the Giants may opt to retain him, complicating Washington’s pursuit.

As the Washington Commanders navigate the offseason, their decisions regarding free-agent safeties will significantly shape the trajectory of their defense. Each option presents distinct advantages and risks, requiring careful consideration from the coaching staff and front office.